Health officials say Ohio Correctional Institution dealing with botulism

UPDATE: September 5, 2024 4:48 p.m.

The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) has confirmed that there are four suspected cases of botulism from Belmont Correctional Institution who are currently being treated at The Ohio State Wexner Medical Center (OSUMC).

Based on available information, it is believed that these suspected cases are linked to contraband homemade alcohol (commonly referred to as ‘hooch’) consumed by the symptomatic individuals.

All four individuals have received anti-toxin medication from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC.)

ODRC continues to work with the CDC, ODH, OSUMC, and local public health officials on this matter.

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Health officials in Ohio say the Belmont Correctional Institution is dealing with botulism.

Belmont County officials confirmed the situation but that is the extent of their knowledge because the Correctional Institution is a state institution and the state is handling the issue. not the county.

7News has contacted prison officials and the Ohio Department of Health and is currently waiting for a response.

The CDC says botulism is a rare but serious illness that is caused by a toxin that attacks the body’s nerves causing difficulty breathing, muscle paralysis, and even death.

There are 5 main kinds of botulism: food, wound, infant, iatrogenic,and Adult intestinal toxemia

Foodborne botulism can happen by eating foods that have been contaminated with botulinum toxin. Common sources of foodborne botulism are homemade foods that have been improperly canned, preserved, or fermented. Though uncommon, store-bought foods also can be contaminated with botulinum toxin.

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